Glossary

Units:

Unit 5: Building New Neural Networks

Dynamic skill theory

A theory put forth by Kurt Fischer and colleagues describing concepts (and methods) for understanding how cognition and emotion impact development and learning based on assumptions of individual variability and interactions with context and environment. In the context of learning, dynamic skill theory posits levels of development and dependence of performance on context.

neural networks

A term describing a conceptualization of how brain systems operate, which can refer to either biological systems of neurons or computational models of how biological systems operate.

scaffold

A term describing support offered by a learning partner (mentor, teacher, more experienced peer, or parent), which structures the context and environment in a way that facilitates learning for the student.